Best arcade racing games

The Forza Horizon series is a benchmark in the 'arcade and open-world' subgenre, and this sixth installment is expected to be the year's big hit. Its setting in Japan and the promise of a massive map make it highly anticipated.

This reboot of the 1995 classic has been recently released and has been crowned as one of the year's most recommended titles within the arcade driving genre. It is praised for its tactical and addictive gameplay, offering futuristic races with vehicular combat.

It was one of the big surprises of the Game Awards 2025 and promises to be one of the best uses of the Star Wars license in the racing genre. It offers pure speed and risk in a galactic environment.

This spin-off reinvents the legendary series as a 'vehicular combat roguelite' with hordes of zombies and final bosses. It revitalizes a classic franchise with a modern approach and roguelite elements, offering a unique experience.

Developed by the creators of Circuit Superstars, it is designed to be a fast, colorful, and accessible 'knockabout arcade racer'. It offers a smooth entry ramp for racing enthusiasts looking for a straightforward and fun arcade experience.

A sequel to the acclaimed demolition game, it promises a revamped visual engine and even more destructive gameplay. For fans of vehicular destruction and chaotic races, Wreckfest 2 is shaping up to be a benchmark.

This post-apocalyptic 'combat racer' combines racing with combat elements, offering an arcade experience with a touch of action. It is ideal for those looking for more than just speed in their racing games.

Inspired by Sega's arcade racing games of yesteryear, it offers a wealth of content with five vehicle classes and numerous tracks. For classic arcade nostalgics, SPGP promises an evolution of that style.

This unofficial remake of Sega Rally, developed with Unreal Engine 5, seeks to recapture the pure essence of 90s arcade with modern graphics. It is a 'love letter' to Sega Rally fans, offering a pure and visually spectacular arcade rally experience.

Although it includes simulation elements, its strong emphasis on drift and customization, along with a unique aesthetic, make it appealing to arcade racing fans with a focus on drifting. Its Japanese open world and narrative make it stand out.

A continuation of an acclaimed drifting game, it promises to be more chaotic and wild than its predecessor. For drifting enthusiasts, this sequel aims to improve upon its predecessor's features, offering a deep and competitive arcade drifting experience.

This return of the series is designed for a straightforward driving experience, ideal for enjoying motoring in an accessible way. It's a solid option for Nintendo Switch 2 players and other platforms looking for a direct and fun arcade racing game.

It marks the return of a beloved series known for its unique arcade street racing style, promising extreme speed and intense duels. Its setting in a futuristic Tokyo and the 'SP Battle' system make it very appealing.

Despite not being a 2026 release, it remains an excellent and current arcade racing game, highly valued for its fun and faithfulness to the Hot Wheels brand. It offers imaginative tracks and fast-paced gameplay.